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About the Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center

Overhead View

Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center is a remotely sensed data management, systems development, and research field center for the U.S. Geological Survey's(USGS)Climate and Land Use Change Mission Area. The USGS is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior. EROS opened in the early 1970's with a handful of employees and the largest mainframe computer in the State of South Dakota. It currently houses one of the largest computer complexes in the Department of the Interior. EROS has approximately 600 government and contractor employees.

Location

Front Entrance Grounds

EROS is located in the country approximately 15 miles north of Sioux Falls, South Dakota (see Visitor Information), and one of the more common questions asked by people touring the facility is:

"Why is EROS located here?"

When the idea of EROS was conceived, it was decided that it needed to be centrally located for receiving data as Landsat satellites passed over the United States. The choice for the Center's location was narrowed to several States. Ultimately, South Dakota was selected as the site for the Center, due in part to the role played by the late S.D. Senator Karl Mundt.

Who Uses the Data in EROS Archives

Scientists, managers, and technical users from around the world, including the staff at EROS, use data from the archives for a variety of data applications and research programs. For information on how to search for and order data from EROS, click on the Find Data tab above.

Employers

EROS is staffed by USGS employees and employees from private industry that are working under contract to support the EROS mission.

Earth science, computer science, satellite systems engineering, and other professional and technical support services are provided by primary contractors SGT and ASRC Federal - InuTeq, and their associated subcontractors, accounting for the largest portion of the contractor work force.

Facility operation and maintenance are provided by DCT, Inc.

Security is provided by ATA Services Inc.

Custodial services are provided by Pleasant Valley Cleaning.

Food services are provided by the EROS Cafeteria.

Tours

For more information about the Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center, take our virtual tour. On-site guided tours are available Monday through Friday at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., central time.To book a guided tour, call 605-594-6511. Abbreviated self-guided tours may be taken anytime between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., central time.